Chloridespecmcnc
A blood test that measures the amount of chloride in your blood to evaluate electrolyte balance and kidney function.
{"Measures chloride levels in your blood serum","Helps diagnose and monitor kidney disease and electrolyte imbalances","Normal range is typically 96-106 mEq/L","Abnormal levels may indicate dehydration, kidney problems, or other conditions","No special preparation is usually needed for this test"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87475-0
- Short code
- Cl
- Synonyms
- Chloride Spec-mCnc
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST/Gel tube) or plain red top tube
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 96
- Ref high
- 106
- Critical range
- 80 not specified – 120 not specified
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Ion-selective electrode (ISE) indirect potentiometry
- CPT
- 82435
- SNOMED
- 102861004
- Specimen volume
- 0.5-1.0 mL serum minimum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 7 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 300
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 1–4 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The serum chloride test measures the amount of chloride, an electrolyte, in your blood. Chloride is an essential mineral that helps maintain the body's fluid balance, aids in digestion by forming hydrochloric acid in the stomach, and works with other electrolytes like sodium and potassium to ensure proper cell function.
Why is this test performed?
This test is typically ordered as part of a routine metabolic panel or electrolyte panel. It helps healthcare providers evaluate your overall electrolyte balance, kidney function, and hydration status. The test may be performed if you have symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, dehydration, or irregular heartbeat.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The procedure is quick and typically takes only a few minutes. You may experience slight discomfort or bruising at the puncture site, but this usually resolves quickly.
Understanding your results
Normal chloride levels typically range from 96 to 106 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). However, the exact reference range may vary depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your overall health and other test findings.
Reference range
96-106 mmol/Lnot specified
No special preparation or fasting required
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before the test?
What can cause abnormal chloride levels?
Is the test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy